Event Details

He was often criticized for being too daring. Today he is acknowledged as one of Austria's most important painters. Join us at the Austrian Cultural Forum in Washington DC for a slide illustrated lecture on artist Gustav Klimt by Dr. Bruce S. Allen, Honorary Consul of the Principality of Liechtenstin (Atlanta).

The life and art of Gustav Klimt is surrounded by much mystery and controversy. He was one of the most prominent members of the Vienna Secession movement. His major works include paintings, murals, sketches and other art objects, many of which are on display in the Vienna Secession Gallery. His most famous work titled 'The Kiss' is one of many paintings done in the 'Golden Style,' so named for his extensive use of gold leaf and gilded papers. During the lecture Dr. Allen will introduce us to the world of Klimts' works, his life and the Vienna of the fin de siècle.

Vienna was an artistic center at the very beginning of the 20th century. Together with architects such as Josef Maria Olbrich, Joseph Hoffmann, Otto Wagner, and the designer Koloman Moser, Klimt revolutionized the fine and decorative arts in Northern Europe. In his subject matter and scandalous private life Klimt had a powerful effect on such younger artists as Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka, contributing to the ethos of the Expressionist movement in Austria, Germany and beyond. Today images of his work are recognized around the world, and he is admired and studied more than ever before.

Gustav Klimt once said about himself: 'I can't paint and draw. There is no self-portrait of myself. I am not interested in my own person - more in other people, females. [...] I paint day by day from morning to night - figurative paintings and landscape, less often portraits. Already when i should write a simple letter I get frightened like due to imminent seasickness. Those who want to know more about me shall observingly regard my paintings, and try to realize who I am and what I want.'

Admission is free. RSVP is required due to limited space. Please register online.